Influenza Clinical Guidelines and Resources
Health care providers can find information on the use of select drug therapies for the management of patients with seasonal influenza.
Seasonal Influenza Clinical Guidance
The following document provides guidance and algorithms on the appropriate prescribing of antiviral therapy (oseltamivir, zanamivir, baloxavir, peramivir) for patients (adults and children) with seasonal influenza.
Highlights include information on influenza severity classification, risk factors for developing influenza-related complications, and recommendations for influenza treatment including an overview of the clinical evidence for antiviral therapies.
Recommendations for Antiviral Therapy of Seasonal Influenza (November 3, 2025)
Immunization
Testing and Diagnosis
- Ontario Respiratory Virus Surveillance Tool (Public Health Ontario)
- Molecular Testing for Respiratory Viruses including influenza (Public Health Ontario Laboratory)
- Recommendations for Outbreak Prevention and Control in Institutions and Congregate Living Settings (Ministry of Health)
- Infectious Diseases Protocol Appendix 1: Case Definitions and Disease- Specific Information- Influenza (Ministry of Health)
Drug Availability
Currently marketed in Canada: Yes
Coverage Options:
- For eligible Ontario Drug Benefit (ODB) program recipients, refer to the ODB Formulary for information on the conditions for reimbursement.
- For Indigenous Services Canada’s Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) clients (eligible First Nations and Inuit individuals), refer to the NIHB drug benefit list for information.
- Individuals with private insurance should confirm with their plan directly as coverage options may vary.
- For eligible individuals with the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP), refer to the IFHP Information for Health Care Professionals webpage for more information.
- Individuals who do not have private insurance or do not qualify for the publicly funded oseltamivir programs outlined above may need to pay out-of-pocket.
Currently marketed in Canada: Yes
Coverage Options:
- For eligible Ontario Drug Benefit (ODB) program recipients, refer to the ODB Formulary for information on the conditions for reimbursement.
- For Indigenous Services Canada’s Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) clients (eligible First Nations and Inuit individuals), refer to the NIHB drug benefit list for information.
- Individuals with private insurance should confirm with their plan directly as coverage options may vary.
- For eligible individuals with the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP), refer to the IFHP Information for Health Care Professionals webpage for more information.
- Individuals who do not have private insurance or do not qualify for the publicly funded inhaled zanamivir programs outlines above may need to pay out-of-pocket.
Currently marketed in Canada: No
Coverage Options:
Authorization from Health Canada’s Special Access Program is required for use.
Currently marketed in Canada: Yes
Coverage Options:
Private insurance or out-of-pocket payment may apply.
Currently marketed in Canada: No
Coverage Options:
Authorization from Health Canada’s Special Access Program is required for use.
Currently marketed in Canada: No
(Note: Approved by Health Canada, but not marketed in Canada)
Coverage Options:
Authorization from Health Canada’s Special Access Program is required for use.
Last Updated: November 06, 2025